Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel podcast, the podcast that brings you real-life dog training results, and sometimes human training ones too!
This week, Lauren is joined by the brilliant Linda to tackle a challenge so many dog owners know all too well: window barking. That moment your dog launches at the glass, noise levels skyrocket, and suddenly the whole house feels tense, chaotic, and on edge. It’s frustrating, it’s exhausting, and for many, it feels like a habit that’s impossible to break.
In this episode, we dig into what’s really going on behind the barking. Because this isn’t about a “naughty” dog - it’s about a behaviour that’s been well practised and, in many cases, accidentally reinforced. With the perfect vantage point and a constant stream of passers-by, your dog is essentially rehearsing the same high-arousal response again and again.
Lauren and Linda walk through a real-life case study, sharing exactly how Linda turned things around for a dog who was making daily life stressful for the entire household. You’ll hear how small, practical changes - like adjusting the environment to reduce visual triggers - and simple, positive training techniques can make a huge difference.
From using window film to limit rehearsal, to transforming a familiar “uh-uh” into a powerful, reward-based attention cue, this is all about changing the picture, not battling the behaviour.
We also explore why telling your dog off often backfires, and what to do instead. By focusing on rewarding the behaviours you do want - like choosing to move away from the window and settle calmly - you can build habits that stick, without conflict or frustration.
If you’re dealing with barking at windows, TVs, or anything that triggers that launch-and-lunge response, this episode will give you a clear, practical plan you can start straight away.
Ready for solutions for every struggle - including barking? Grab the £1 Games Club trial and get started right now!
